WEST (CBSDFW.COM) – Officials have just confirmed that a North Texas firefighter was killed in the West Fertilizer Plant explosion.

Dallas Fire Rescue Captain Kenny Harris lost his life trying to help others. Captain Harris lived in West and was off duty at the time of the explosion. DFR officials do not believe that he was officially involved in any firefighting activity, but responded to the emergency incident s a helper.

“Captain Harris rushed to the scene compelled to provide assistance to his community during this crisis,” Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings said in a press release statement. “I want to express my deepest condolences to his family, friends and co-workers.”

DFR officials said Harris, 52, was initially reported missing after the blast in West, Texas. There were no detail however on how it was discovered that Harris did indeed perish.

The loss is being felt across the City of Dallas. Dallas Fire Chief Louie Bright III said, “Our hearts are heavy and hurting with the loss of such a great firefighter, great husband and great family man. Dallas Fire-Rescue is wrapping its arms around the Harris family to provide comfort and support.”

City manager Mary Suhm said she wasn’t surprised that Harris immediately went to the scene to assist in anyway possible. She said his actions were “typical of all our first responders.”

Captain Harris had been with Dallas Fire-Rescue for more than 30 years. He leaves behind a wife and three grown sons.